Fluid in the abdominal cavity in men. Ascites of the abdominal cavity: how dangerous is it? How to treat abdominal ascites in oncology

Abdominal ascites is the concentration of effusion fluid in the peritoneal region, which is not related to any internal organ. The presented condition can develop due to a fairly significant number of deviations associated with various internal organs and systems. However, in 75% of cases, ascites is a complication of liver cirrhosis, while the effusion is difficult to remove - it can accumulate quite quickly. Given this, I would like to dwell in more detail on what are the causes, treatment and prognosis in this case.

Causes of ascites in an adult

Talking about the causes of ascites in an adult, it is strongly recommended to pay attention to such factors as cirrhosis of the liver, malignant tumors (in 10% of cases) and heart failure - in 5% of the total number of cases. In addition, effusion and fluid in the abdominal cavity may be concentrated due to an increase in pressure in the portal vein of the liver. Experts pay special attention to such reasons as:

• amyloidosis, glomerulonephritis - kidney pathology;
• deficiency associated with the human diet, namely the lack of vitamins, minerals and nutrients;
• carcinomatosis, namely the seeding of the mucous membrane of the abdomen with cells associated with cancer of the intestines, stomach and even breasts - treatment in this case is the most problematic;
• tuberculous lesions of the peritoneal region;
• the presence of tumors in the specified zone - mesothelioma and others, the treatment of which should be carried out in a separate manner.

In addition, effusion can accumulate due to certain gynecological diseases (cyst, tumors in the ovarian region). This can also be influenced by such reasons as disturbances in the work of the endocrine system, diseases of the digestive tract, destabilization of the outflow of lymph. Separate attention deserves all those reasons that influenced the fact that the effusion began to focus on the abdomen of the child.

Causes of illness in children

In some cases, a newborn or infant may well develop ascites. This happens due to congenital edema: due to Rh or group incompatibility (between mother and child), blood loss in the prenatal period can also have an effect. In addition, some congenital anomalies associated with the development or functioning of the kidneys and the biliary system as a whole can be identified in the baby.

We should not forget about congenital nephrotic syndrome, which will be accompanied by swelling. Treatment will also be required for exudative enteropathy (plasma protein is lost through the intestines) and for kwashiorkor (a disease associated with protein deficiency in the female body). In order to better understand why exactly effusion begins to accumulate, it is necessary to pay attention to everyone who is at risk.

What do you need to know about risk factors?

The accumulation of fluid, the prognosis for which will not always be positive, is highly likely to develop in someone who has been abusing alcohol for a long time or has experienced chronic hepatitis (viral origin in this case is not of particular importance). Effusion also accumulates when injecting drugs are introduced, with frequent blood transfusions. Special attention, according to experts, deserves the following cases:

• tattoo;
• living in a region where chronic viral hepatitis is common;
• the presence of obesity;
• type 2 diabetes mellitus;
• high or even elevated cholesterol levels, the treatment of which is difficult.

What are the symptoms of ascites?

It must be borne in mind that a small amount of free fluid cannot lead to the formation of characteristic symptoms. The fact is that they begin to appear only after one liter of transudate (liquid) in the peritoneal region. The symptoms of ascites are as follows: distension and pain in the abdomen, weight gain and, directly, a change in the volume of the peritoneum.

Difficulties in bending over, flatulence, and heartburn deserve special attention. The likelihood that a negative prognosis will develop can be affected by belching, the occurrence of shortness of breath during walking, and swelling of the legs. In addition, the fact that treatment is required is indicated by the fact that the navel systematically protrudes outward, and white stretch marks appear on the skin.

If ascites and effusion in general are provoked by increased pressure in the region of the portal vein of the liver, then dilated saphenous veins will be noticeable on the anterior and lateral planes of the abdomen. At the same time, when portal hypertension is provoked by blockade of the subhepatic vessels, a person will develop jaundice, nausea and vomiting.

In the tuberculous form of ascites, the previously presented symptoms will be joined by signs of intoxication, for example, weakness or fatigue, headaches. In addition, the patient's weight loss will be identified and it is highly recommended to start treatment as early as possible. In the presence of protein deficiency, the effusion is not pronounced, but edema is present in the extremities. In addition, the effusion will spread to the pleural area, accompanied by shortness of breath. Before starting treatment, it is strongly recommended to pay attention to diagnostic measures.

Diagnosis of the disease

The diagnosis should be determined on the basis of examination of the patient, ultrasound and radiography of the peritoneum, as well as the chest cavity. However, this is not all diagnostic measures, because it will be required:

• laparoscopy and laparocentesis - analysis of fluid from the peritoneum;
• hepatoscintigraphy - a study that allows you to identify the defeat of cirrhotic changes;
• CT and MRI;
• angiography - to determine the vascular origin of ascites;
• biochemical indicators, in particular, the ratio of albumins, fractions of globulins and other criteria.

Further, before starting treatment, specialists can insist on the implementation of a coagulogram and the identification of alpha-fetoprotein indicators in the blood from a vein. Only after such a step-by-step and detailed diagnosis will it be possible to talk about how exactly the effusion should be treated and why. Also, experts will approximately be able to determine the prognosis in the development of a pathological condition, based, among other things, on how long fluid accumulation occurs.

Features of the treatment of ascites

In the process of treating ascites associated with the abdominal cavity, the regimen, namely bed and semi-bed, is extremely important. Special attention is strongly recommended to pay to the diet. In particular, an absolute elimination of sodium from the diet may be required. In order to achieve this, it is highly recommended to reduce the use of salt. With cirrhosis and in the case when the effusion is active, it will be necessary to limit the use of liquids (up to one liter during the day, in some cases a free dosage is determined).

Special attention will need to be paid to monitoring the dynamics of a person's weight within 24 hours. This is explained by the fact that at least 500 grams should be lost over the specified period of time. In this case, the fluid consumed should not be significantly more than the amount released under the condition of optimal body temperature, as well as ambient air.

Treatment with medication will directly depend on what exactly turned out to be the cause of ascites. For example, for all its types, the appointment of diuretic compounds with potassium will be required. Traditionally, such a combination should include the drug Veroshpiron, used in conjunction with Lasix or Torasemide. Asparkam, Panangin and other compounds are used as a constant source of potassium.

When identifying cirrhosis of the liver, when the accumulation occurs quickly enough, hepatoprotectors of various directions of action should be prescribed. For low protein values, transfusion of protein formulations is used, for example, albumin 5-10% or fresh frozen plasma. The latter remedy is used when there are disorders associated with the blood coagulation system. All those operations that can and should be performed with ascites deserve special attention, especially if ascites significantly aggravates vital processes.

What do you need to know about surgical treatment?

Surgical treatment is necessary when the patient's body has not responded properly to the diuretic drugs used. Speaking of this, it should be borne in mind that methods such as:

1. laparocentesis - removal of fluid in ascites through a puncture in the abdominal wall. Traditionally, a drainage tube with a clamp is placed in the presented hole, which will make it possible to remove excess fluid for several days;
2. transjugular intrahepatic shunting - the formation of an artificial communication between veins such as the hepatic and portal. The operation should be carried out under mandatory X-ray control in order to exclude any complications after that;
3. transplantation of the liver area - may be needed when it comes to abdominal ascites in oncology.

Ascites prognosis

The prognosis will most directly depend on the cause that provoked ascites, as well as on the effectiveness of the recovery course. Factors such as age over 60, low blood pressure, and a decrease in blood albumin below 30 should be considered unfavorable. In addition, an aggravation is identified in the presence of diabetes mellitus, if the disease has formed as a complication of liver cancer or when glomerular filtration changes ( according to the sample or photo of Reberg). Experts estimate that half of patients with ascites will die within two years. If ascites does not respond to diuretic medicinal formulations, then 50% die within six months.

What are the possible complications?

It must be understood that even after successful treatment, some complications may form. In particular, we can talk about peritonitis (spontaneous bacterial suppuration - free form), refractory ascites - there is no weight loss even with the use of diuretic compounds. Further, hepatic encephalopathy, hepatorenal syndrome, and spontaneous discharge of fluid due to ascites from the umbilical region should be noted. Such complications after an illness or operation are noticeable even in the photo.

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1. Can cancer be prevented?
The occurrence of a disease such as cancer depends on many factors. No one can be completely safe. But everyone can significantly reduce the chances of a malignant tumor.

2. How does smoking affect the development of cancer?
Absolutely, categorically ban yourself from smoking. This truth is already tired of everyone. But quitting smoking reduces the risk of developing all types of cancer. Smoking is associated with 30% of cancer deaths. In Russia, lung tumors kill more people than tumors of all other organs.
Eliminating tobacco from your life is the best prevention. Even if you smoke not a pack a day, but only half, the risk of lung cancer is already reduced by 27%, as the American Medical Association found.

3. Does excess weight affect the development of cancer?
Keep your eyes on the scales! Extra pounds will affect not only the waist. The American Institute for Cancer Research has found that obesity contributes to the development of tumors in the esophagus, kidneys, and gallbladder. The fact is that adipose tissue serves not only to store energy reserves, it also has a secretory function: fat produces proteins that affect the development of a chronic inflammatory process in the body. And oncological diseases just appear against the background of inflammation. In Russia, 26% of all cancer cases are associated with obesity.

4. Does exercise help reduce the risk of cancer?
Set aside at least half an hour a week for exercise. Sport is on the same level as proper nutrition when it comes to cancer prevention. In the US, a third of all deaths are attributed to the fact that patients did not follow any diet and did not pay attention to physical education. The American Cancer Society recommends exercising 150 minutes a week at a moderate pace or half as much but more vigorously. However, a study published in the journal Nutrition and Cancer in 2010 proves that even 30 minutes is enough to reduce the risk of breast cancer (which affects one in eight women in the world) by 35%.

5.How does alcohol affect cancer cells?
Less alcohol! Alcohol is blamed for causing tumors in the mouth, larynx, liver, rectum, and mammary glands. Ethyl alcohol breaks down in the body to acetaldehyde, which then, under the action of enzymes, turns into acetic acid. Acetaldehyde is the strongest carcinogen. Alcohol is especially harmful to women, as it stimulates the production of estrogen - hormones that affect the growth of breast tissue. Excess estrogen leads to the formation of breast tumors, which means that every extra sip of alcohol increases the risk of getting sick.

6. Which cabbage helps fight cancer?
Love broccoli. Vegetables are not only part of a healthy diet, they also help fight cancer. This is also why recommendations for healthy eating contain the rule: half of the daily diet should be vegetables and fruits. Especially useful are cruciferous vegetables, which contain glucosinolates - substances that, when processed, acquire anti-cancer properties. These vegetables include cabbage: ordinary white cabbage, Brussels sprouts and broccoli.

7. Which organ cancer is affected by red meat?
The more vegetables you eat, the less red meat you put on your plate. Studies have confirmed that people who eat more than 500 grams of red meat per week have a higher risk of developing colon cancer.

8. Which of the proposed remedies protect against skin cancer?
Stock up on sunscreen! Women aged 18-36 are particularly susceptible to melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. In Russia, in just 10 years, the incidence of melanoma has increased by 26%, world statistics show an even greater increase. Both artificial tanning equipment and the sun's rays are blamed for this. The danger can be minimized with a simple tube of sunscreen. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology in 2010 confirmed that people who regularly apply a special cream get melanoma half as often as those who neglect such cosmetics.
The cream should be chosen with a protection factor SPF 15, apply it even in winter and even in cloudy weather (the procedure should turn into the same habit as brushing your teeth), and also do not expose yourself to the sun's rays from 10 to 16 hours.

9. Do you think stress affects the development of cancer?
By itself, stress does not cause cancer, but it weakens the entire body and creates conditions for the development of this disease. Research has shown that constant worry alters the activity of the immune cells responsible for turning on the fight-and-flight mechanism. As a result, a large amount of cortisol, monocytes and neutrophils, which are responsible for inflammatory processes, constantly circulate in the blood. And as already mentioned, chronic inflammatory processes can lead to the formation of cancer cells.

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Water in the abdomen is an alarming symptom that the doctor diagnoses on ultrasound. It is recommended to undergo such an examination if the patient notices an increase in the abdominal cavity. Such a complaint should not be left without the attention of a specialist, since with advanced clinical pictures, an oncological disease progresses with a fatal outcome.

• Abdominal ascites
• What is ascites
• How to treat ascites
• Diet for ascites
• How to treat abdominal ascites: patient experience
• Choosing the right diet for ascites and its treatment with traditional medicine
• The reasons
• Symptoms
• Diagnosis and treatment
• Diet
• Treatment with folk remedies
• Ascites in oncology
• Causes and mechanism of development
• Symptoms
• stages
• Diagnostics
• Surgical intervention
• Treatment of abdominal ascites with folk remedies
• Symptoms and Causes
• Diet
• How to treat ascites at home?
• The reasons
• Ascites - fluid in the abdomen
• Symptoms
• Medical treatment
• Folk remedies
• Nutrition Features
• Course and forecast
• Prevention

What is ascites

This is a dangerous diagnosis, which is characterized by an increased accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Other important organs of the body, such as the lungs and heart, can suffer from ascites. The problem is not inflammatory. The fluid accumulated in the peritoneal region can reach liters in volume. In the people, such a disease is called "frog belly", it is prone to a malignant course. For 75% of all clinical pictures, this is a complication of progressive cirrhosis, and the main goal of treatment is to suppress disturbing symptoms and prolong the period of remission.

Why does fluid accumulate in the abdominal cavity

The peritoneum lining the walls of the abdominal cavity secretes a small amount of fluid, which is similar in chemical composition to blood plasma. It is necessary for the normal functioning of the internal organs, otherwise they would stick together. The fluid is absorbed and excreted throughout the day, but under the influence of pathological factors, this natural process can be disrupted. With an imbalance, intra-abdominal pressure increases, the stomach increases in size. Urgent diagnostics with the subsequent complex therapy is necessary.

Causes of abdominal ascites

This disease is a complication of liver cirrhosis and not only. It progresses gradually in the body, at first it does not manifest itself in any way. Abdominal ascites is difficult to successfully treat. However, healing occurs if the main pathogenic factor is eliminated. The causes of ascitic disease are of an unexpected nature, the most common among them are presented below. It:

• heart failure;
• malignant neoplasms;
• disturbed pressure of the portal vein of the liver;
• abdominal tuberculosis;
• development of mesothelioma, pseudomyxoma;
• disruption of the endocrine system;
• female diseases (from the field of gynecology).

Why does dropsy of the abdomen occur in newborns

Abdominal ascites can progress at any age, and infants with a characteristic ailment are no exception. The pathological process is exacerbated even in the prenatal period, characterized by a congenital disorder of the hepatic function. Such a disease is caused at such a young age by infectious diseases of a pregnant woman. These include the following diagnoses:

The risk group included newborns whose mothers abused narcotic substances, medicines, alcoholic beverages, chemical reagents during pregnancy. In addition, ascites progresses in case of blood transfusion during pregnancy, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus. So that from the first days of life the child does not get sick with abdominal ascites, a pregnant woman is not recommended to do permanent makeup, tattoos.

What is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity

The main symptom of peritoneal ascites is free fluid in the abdominal cavity that collects and is not excreted naturally. Such a sign of the disease provokes an increase in the abdominal cavity in size, and over time this process only progresses. At first, the patient does not notice the characteristic changes in appearance, but then he cannot strain and relax the stomach. Additional symptoms of ascites are as follows:

• abdominal pain;
• signs of dyspepsia;
• weight gain;
• shortness of breath when walking;
• big belly;
• heartburn, belching;
• fluctuation;
• a state of general discomfort;
• increased swelling of the extremities.

How is fluid accumulation in the abdomen diagnosed?

It is very problematic to determine ascites by visual examination and palpation of the abdominal cavity. A description of the symptoms is necessary to collect anamnesis data, but such actions of a specialist are not enough to make a final diagnosis. It is necessary to undergo a clinical examination, visualize the foci of transudate, determine the nature, stage of the pathological process. Diagnostics includes the following methods:

1. ultrasound. Helps to assess the systemic blood flow of the portal vein, the presence of cirrhosis of the liver, tumors of the peritoneum. The method is non-invasive, painless, but at an early stage of ascites is uninformative.
2. Radiography. This diagnostic method visualizes foci of ascites, determines the volume of fluid, the boundaries of the abdominal cavity. On the screen, you can see cirrhosis of the liver and tuberculosis, suggest heart failure.
3. Laparocentesis. An invasive method that involves the collection and further study of ascitic fluid in the laboratory. Additionally, a liver biopsy (puncture) is performed to identify the etiology of the pathological process.
4. CT and MRI. Both methods accurately determine abnormal fluid effusion, and diagnose pathology in hard-to-reach parts of the abdominal cavity. Laparocentesis complements complex diagnostics.
5. Angiography. This is a type of radiography, when a contrast agent is injected into the vessels to determine the etiology of the pathological process. This method can determine cirrhosis even at an early stage.

How to treat ascites

Having performed radiography and angiography, the doctor can make a prognosis, determine an effective treatment regimen. The approach to the problem is complex, and for advanced clinical pictures, it does not exclude an operation to remove oncology, laparocentesis. It all depends on the signs and symptoms, the diagnosis, the recommendations of a specialist. First, doctors tend to remove the focus of the pathology conservatively, but if the fluid continues to accumulate in the abdominal cavity, you definitely cannot do without surgery. Otherwise, oncology only progresses.

How is abdominal dropsy treated therapeutically

The main goal of drug therapy for ascites is to remove the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity in a non-invasive way. Treatment is appropriate at an early stage, when the peritoneum is not yet completely filled with transudate. With ascites, the doctor prescribes diuretics, calcium preparations. In the first case, we are talking about such medicines as Veroshpiron, Diakarb, Lasix, Torasemide, after which the water in the abdominal cavity disappears. In the second - calcium tablets, Panangin and Asparkam. In addition, it is recommended to use multivitamin complexes.

How to remove fluid in the abdomen with surgical methods

If ascites is diagnosed in an advanced stage, an operation to pump out the transudate is indispensable. In this way, you can temporarily remove the big belly, but if the cause of the disease is not eliminated, its symptoms will very soon remind of themselves again. It is important to understand that we are talking about oncology, and you cannot do without surgery. Surgical intervention for ascites involves the following actions:

1. Laparocentesis. A puncture of the abdominal cavity is performed to further divert ascitic fluid. The procedure can take several days and requires the patient to be hospitalized.
2. Transjugular intrahepatic shunting. The surgeon forms an artificial duct between the hepatic and portal veins to ensure water exchange and stabilize intra-abdominal pressure.
3. Liver transplant. The operation is appropriate for oncology, advanced degree of cirrhosis.

Diet for ascites

To exclude serious health complications, therapeutic nutrition is necessary. In addition, a properly selected diet for ascites reduces the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, prolongs the period of remission, and eliminates alarming symptoms. The main focus needs to be on food ingredients, which contain a large amount of potassium. It:

Video: dropsy of the abdominal cavity in humans

The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials of the article do not call for self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give recommendations for treatment based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

Ascites of the abdominal cavity is a pathological condition in which fluid enters it and lingers there in excess. This process can develop rapidly or proceed in a chronic form. It is never independent and always accompanies severe concomitant diseases, such as cirrhosis, tuberculosis, or cancer with metastasis.

How Olga, 62 years old, treated ascites with medication

My mother developed ascites at age 62. Health problems began about three years ago, when her legs began to swell, and a couple of years ago she was first admitted to the hospital, where they eliminated excess fluid with the help of diuretics. Then he was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver. After the diagnosis was made, she was sent to a hepatologist, but after a superficial examination, he did not find any serious pathologies and advised her to continue drinking diuretics.

The history of the treatment of ascites with folk remedies Grigory, 48 years old

I have chronic pancreatitis. In general, he did not give me any special problems with well-being. I just have to comply and drink certain medications from time to time. But a couple of years ago, my body scared me in earnest. After relaxing at sea under the scorching sun and, I confess, with some violations in the menu, my pancreatitis began to worsen. I decided, as usual, to take medicine and go to the doctor for an examination after returning home. But my condition worsened, my stomach began to appear.

• Decoction of bean pods. It is a good diuretic. For cooking, use the husk from 30 pods. They need to be filled with water in an amount of about a liter and put to boil. After 10 minutes, the broth is removed from the heat and infused for 20 minutes. The mixture is filtered and cooled. You need to take the drug 200 grams at a time. The first portion - at five in the morning, the second - half an hour before breakfast, the third - half an hour before dinner, the fourth - no later than eight o'clock in the evening.

After such treatment, I significantly improved my health, and I have not had any exacerbations for two years now. The main thing is to pass all examinations on time and monitor your well-being.

• Read the review of the complex remedy for hemorrhoids Proctonol
• How to lose weight by 20 kg - real reviews of Guarchibao

The history of the treatment of ascites with dietary nutrition Vyacheslav, 53 years old

At the beginning of the year, my gallbladder was removed. Almost immediately after the operation, my stomach began to “inflate”. As a result, I was given a concomitant diagnosis - ascites. In addition, a few years ago I had acute hepatitis (infected in the dentist's office).

How Nikolay cured ascites with herbal decoctions, 42 years old

Until I was 40, I drank a lot. Now, of course, I repent, but it seemed to me that this would not play a significant role in my life. And only when I had the first attack of liver failure against the background of alcohol intoxication and the doctors literally dragged me out of the other world, I realized that I needed to change something in my life.

Source: proper diet for ascites and its treatment with traditional medicine

Ascites is a rather unusual condition, but it can be recognized by the appearance of the patient. In this case, excess fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity. To rid the body of excess fluid, you need to start treatment on time, as well as adhere to a diet, when the first symptoms appear, it is important to consult a doctor in time.

Ascites manifests itself as an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity

Often, ascites can be provoked by increased pressure in the portal vein, which is typical for liver diseases, thrombosis, compression of the portal vein branches or trunk, and heart failure. Sometimes this condition can become an indicator of alimentary dystrophy, a general edematous syndrome in kidney diseases, and also result from damage to the abdominal cavity.

This pathology can provoke increased intra-abdominal pressure and push the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This leads to disruption of the activity of the abdominal organs, the movement of the lungs during breathing worsens, resistance to blood flow increases, and cardiac activity is disturbed.

In some cases, ascites progresses rapidly, for example, with cancer of the liver or peritoneum, with portal vein thrombosis, in others it proceeds imperceptibly, for example, with cirrhosis of the liver.

Often, ascites becomes a consequence of cirrhosis of the liver, because there is a delay in blood filtration, so there is a squeezing of part of the liquid fraction of blood into the abdominal cavity.

Ascites in cirrhosis of the liver appears due to insufficient work of the protein-synthesizing function. The lack of albumin affects the ability of blood to contain its liquid part in the vascular bed. The fluid, penetrating through the veins, enters the abdominal cavity. An increase in the sodium content in the body can also provoke fluid retention due to the fact that the liver cannot cope with the neutralization of certain substances.

Symptoms

The main symptom of ascites is bloating.

The main symptom of this disease is an increase in the abdomen, or rather, its swelling. The reason is that liquid accumulates in it, which practically does not come out. A person understands that he is unhealthy when he does not fit into clothes of the usual size. Usually this condition is accompanied by two more pathologies. Most often, this is a violation of the intestines and indigestion.

Moderate ascites usually manifests itself in the form of edema of the lower extremities, expansion of the chest, umbilical and inguinal hernia. The patient feels heaviness in the abdomen, heartburn, shortness of breath, problems with the stool. These are symptoms of a pathology that develops over weeks and months.

Tense abdominal ascites is characterized by the appearance of a round abdomen with shiny, tense, smooth skin. In this case, the skin of the hernial sac can thin and tear, which will lead to the release of ascitic fluid. The patient may develop respiratory and heart failure. The fluid can become infected and cause peritonitis, which can be fatal.

Diagnosis and treatment

Ascites is diagnosed by abdominal ultrasound.

Timely diagnosis will allow you to identify the cause and stage of the pathology, as well as determine the treatment. This requires a general examination with palpation and auscultation of the abdomen, ultrasound, x-ray of the abdominal cavity, computed tomography, as well as puncture and study of ascitic fluid.

Treatment of ascites should begin with restriction of sodium intake, no more than 1 g of sodium chloride should be consumed per day. The patient must comply with bed rest. If neither one nor the other helps, then diuretics are connected to the treatment process. Spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride, etc. are usually preferred. They are mild and do not cause side effects, so surgery can be avoided.

Surgical intervention is indicated in 5-10% of patients who are resistant to drug therapy. During the operation, peritoneovenous shunting is used, which can result in serious complications, such as fever, intravascular coagulation, or shunt occlusion. Shunting is not performed in those who suffer from infected ascites, with high serum bilirubin, with hemorrhoidal bleeding, hepatorenal syndrome.

Diet for ascites includes a ban on the use of pastries

Diet for ascites of the abdominal cavity plays a large role in the treatment. Fresh pastries, salt, pastry and puff pastry products should be excluded from the diet. If you don’t have the strength to give up bakery products, then you can afford yesterday’s bakery products. You should also exclude fried, fatty meat and poultry, stew, smoked meats, offal and sausages. At the same time, it is recommended to eat turkey, chicken or rabbit meat, dishes that include minced meat are also acceptable.

Broths should be prepared from chicken, after removing the skin. The first courses should be served in the form of pureed soups. With ascites, it is forbidden to use borscht, meat, fish and mushroom broths. It is permissible to add fish to the diet only in boiled or steamed form.

The use of fatty dairy products is undesirable, therefore whole milk is completely excluded, and low-fat sour cream is only acceptable as a dressing, the diet should also not contain fatty and salty sauces. Patients are allowed boiled cereals cooked in diluted milk. Under the ban are millet, legumes, sorrel, cabbage, garlic, mushrooms, rice, radish, onions, turnips.

From sweets, you can afford only marshmallows, jam or jelly. Dieters should not drink coffee and cold drinks.

Treatment with folk remedies

A decoction of bean pods is a well-known folk remedy for ascites.

Ascites can only be cured by treating the underlying cause. due primarily to the fact that excess fluid is removed from the bloodstream. In this case, the fluid from the abdominal cavity returns to the vessels to make up for losses. To do this, you need to use diuretic fees and decoctions. At the same time, it is necessary to replenish the loss of potassium by eating fruit and vegetable decoctions in a baked or boiled form.

• A decoction of bean pods is an excellent diuretic. Take the husk of 15 bean pods, pour 1 liter of water, boil for 10 minutes. Then insist 20 minutes, then strain. The first portion of the decoction (200 ml) should be taken at 5 o'clock in the morning, as early as possible. The second 200 ml - half an hour before breakfast, the third part - half an hour before dinner, the remaining 200 ml should be consumed before 8 pm. It is not recommended to drink any other liquid on this day. Use within three days, if it does not help, you need to change the medicine.
• A decoction of parsley. To do this, boil 300 g of fresh parsley in 1 liter of water. Then cool and strain the broth. You need to take it every hour in the morning, continue treatment for 3 days.
• Apricot decoction. Prepared from fresh or dried apricots. One glass of apricots pour 1 liter of water, cook for 40 minutes, then strain. A day you need to drink 250-400 ml of broth.
• Diuretic teas. Mix in equal parts the herb of bearberry and hernia. Half a glass of this mixture pour 300 g of water, boil for 15-20 minutes. Then cool and strain. Ready tea to drink before meals in the morning.
• If ascites in men has touched the testicles, then calendula and baby cream can be mixed in equal proportions. Lubricate the testicles with the finished mixture, put gauze on top, then put on the adjacent swimming trunks.
• Bathroom with birch infusion. To do this, you need 20 g of birch leaves or buds, pour 200 ml of boiling water, leave for 6 hours. Then add the infusion to the bath and take it for 30 minutes.
• Therapeutic massage is recommended to be done daily. In this case, you first need to rub the stomach with sunflower or linseed oil clockwise, and then against it.
• If possible, you can sit by the fire, that is, you need to evaporate the liquid by any available means.

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Source: in oncology

Ascites is a severe complication of various diseases in which a large volume of fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity. Detected ascites in oncology seriously complicates the course and treatment of the underlying disease, worsens the prognosis. In patients with oncological diseases of the organs that have contact with the sheets of the peritoneum, the average probability of fluid effusion into the abdominal cavity is 10%.

Tumors of what organs are accompanied by ascites?

The process of accumulation of excess fluid in the abdominal cavity accompanies about half of all cases of ovarian cancer in women. It also complicates the course of neoplasms:

The severity of the patient's condition does not depend on whether the primary tumor caused the pathology or its metastasis. Signs of increased intra-abdominal pressure, elevation of the diaphragm, and reduction in respiratory movements of the lung tissue are added to the manifestations of cancer. As a result, conditions for the work of the heart and lungs worsen, heart and respiratory failure increases, which brings the lethal outcome of the disease closer.

Causes and mechanism of development

The abdominal cavity is formed by 2 leaves. One of them (parietal) lines the inner surface, and the other (visceral) surrounds the nearest organs. Both leaflets produce a small amount of liquid secretion from their glandular cells. With its help, a small local inflammation is eliminated, organs and intestines are protected from friction.

The fluid is constantly updated, as the excess is absorbed by the epithelium. Accumulation is possible if the balance of this state is disturbed. In 75% of cases, patients with ascites have cirrhosis of the liver. This disease has the maximum number of etiological factors leading to pathology.

These include an increase in hydrostatic pressure in the vessels under the influence of stagnation in the venous and lymphatic systems due to a violation of cardiac activity and a drop in oncotic pressure in the blood due to damage to the liver function and a decrease in the content of the albumin protein fraction.

Ascites of the abdominal cavity in oncology does not exclude these mechanisms as an addition to the main damaging factor - hyperfunction of the epithelium of the abdominal cavity with a tumor lesion of the peritoneum sheets. The growth of malignant cells causes irritation and non-specific inflammation.

The most significant role of seeding with malignant cells in ovarian and uterine cancer in women. The complication in these cases aggravates the general condition of the patients so much that they die with an increase in abdominal ascites.

Cancer patients look accordingly

Of considerable importance is the direct compression of the hepatic tissue by the tumor and the creation of conditions for portal hypertension. With an increase in venous pressure, the aqueous part of the blood is discharged into the abdominal cavity.

Cancer intoxication is accompanied by a lack of oxygen in the cells (tissue hypoxia). Kidney tissue very acutely feels any changes and reacts with a decrease in filtration. This sets in motion the action of the pituitary antidiuretic hormone, which retains sodium and water.

Some authors distinguish hepatic and extrahepatic mechanisms in the pathogenesis of ascites. On the example of malignant growth, we see how these causes complement each other. The suction function of the peritoneum and lymphatic vessels is impaired.

An example of local changes would be abdominal lymphoma. This tumor is accompanied by impaired patency of the intra-abdominal lymphatic ducts. From them, the fluid passes directly into the abdominal cavity.

The provoking causes of ascites in oncological diseases can be such an anatomical feature as the close location of the peritoneal folds (fitting), the abundance of blood and lymphatic vessels, which causes the rapid spread of malignant growth to neighboring tissues.

Fluid leakage can be stimulated by the introduction of atypical cells into the peritoneal cavity during surgery, internal germination of the peritoneal walls by a malignant tumor, as well as a course of chemotherapy.

Symptoms

In cancer patients, ascites develops gradually over several weeks or months. Patients feel symptoms when a significant amount of fluid accumulates. Main symptoms:

• bursting heaviness in the abdomen;
• belching after eating;
• heartburn or nausea;
• dull pain in the abdomen;
• shortness of breath at rest, especially when lying down.

These signs are associated with the rise of the dome of the diaphragm, impaired peristalsis of the esophagus, intestines, reflux of acidic contents of the stomach into the esophagus. Some patients complain of attacks of cardiac arrhythmias. During observation, the attending physician reveals an enlarged abdomen. In a standing position, he falls down, the navel protrudes.

During examination on the couch, the abdomen spreads out to the sides

For patients with "hepatic" ascites, the picture of the "head of a jellyfish" is characteristic due to the formation of dense dilated veins around the navel. The accumulation of fluid makes it difficult to bend over and put on shoes.

Unfortunately, it is still not uncommon to find young women with an advanced ovarian tumor who were sure of their pregnancy for a long time, this was facilitated by the cessation of menstruation.

The accumulated fluid itself puts pressure on the tumor, causing decay. Metastasis through the venous system and heart failure is manifested by obstructed outflow of blood to the heart. This leads to swelling of the feet, legs, external genitalia.

All the described symptoms do not develop in isolation. In the first place there are signs of a malignant tumor. Ascites requires additional treatment, as it becomes more dangerous to live with its manifestations due to the possibility of other complications.

Regardless of the causes, 3 stages are distinguished during ascites. They are also typical for patients with oncological diseases:

• transient - the patient feels only bloating, the volume of accumulated fluid is not more than 400 ml;
• moderate - the amount of exudate in the peritoneum reaches 5 liters, all the described symptoms appear, various complications are possible;
• tense - ascites accumulates 20 liters or more, is considered stable (resistant), it is impossible to treat with diuretics, it is accompanied by a serious condition, disrupts the heart and breathing.

The transient stage is almost not felt by the patient

What complications can follow ascites?

The severity of the underlying disease in the event of ascites reduces the patient's chances of recovery. The risk of dangerous complications increases even more. These include:

• bacterial peritonitis - the attachment of an infection causes acute inflammation of the peritoneum;
• intestinal obstruction;
• the appearance of hernias in the area of ​​the white line of the abdomen, navel, in the groin with possible pinching;
• cardiac decompensation;
• accumulation of fluid between the pleural sheets - hydrothorax with acute respiratory failure;
• development of hepatorenal syndrome;
• hemorrhoidal bleeding, prolapse of the lower rectum.

Diagnostics

Such a complication as ascites is preliminarily assumed during an oncological disease. When monitoring the patient, the doctor is obliged to carry out weighing. Weight gain against the background of pronounced weight loss of the arms, legs, body raises suspicion of latent edema.

With an increase in the abdomen, the doctor conducts a percussion examination, a dull sound changes localization depending on the position of the body

If you make a jerky movement with your hand on one side of the abdomen, then in the presence of fluid, the second hand will feel a wave in the opposite side. Additional studies serve as objective confirmation:

• Ultrasound - allows you to identify 200 ml of fluid in the abdominal cavity, at the same time serves as a control over changes in the internal organs;
• survey radiography and tomography - will require good preparation of the patient before the study, reveals fluid when the position of the body changes;
• laparocentesis - a puncture of the anterior abdominal wall in order to pump out fluid and its laboratory analysis, the procedure is both therapeutic and diagnostic, it allows you to identify the degree of seeding of the peritoneum, the composition of the exudate, the presence of microflora.

Problems in the treatment of ascites in oncology

Therapy for ascites should theoretically primarily consist in suppressing the growth of malignant cells in the peritoneum. Then we can expect the removal of the irritating mechanism and the restoration of the function of fluid absorption.

But in practice, chemotherapy methods help to reduce ascites only with neoplasms in the intestines, and with localization in the liver, stomach, uterus, ovaries, they remain ineffective.

It remains to control the intake and excretion of fluid with food, to count on the optimal conditions for the action of diuretics (diuretics). You can remove excess water with a restrictive diet. The patient is prescribed a salt-free diet, all dishes are prepared without salt, in agreement with the doctor, it is possible to add salt to the plate.

Spicy seasonings, heavy fatty foods, everything cooked in fried form are excluded. The amount of fluid consumed is calculated by diuresis (the amount of urine excreted per day). At the same time, the menu should include foods that provide the body with protein and potassium. Therefore it is recommended:

• boiled lean meat and fish;
• cottage cheese, kefir with good tolerance;
• baked potato;
• compote of dried apricots, raisins;
• carrots, spinach;
• oatmeal.

How are diuretics treated?

In the appointment of diuretics should not be overzealous. The recommendation of doctors to drink more fluids is known for any intoxication. This also applies to cancer. The removal of a large volume of water from the body increases the overall intoxication with the decay products of malignant cells, therefore, weight loss while taking diuretics by 500 g per day is considered acceptable.

The choice of diuretics and dosage always remains with the doctor. You can not change drugs on your own, violate the regimen. The most effective is the combination of Furosemide, Veroshpiron and Diakarba.

After ingestion of one tablet, the action begins an hour later, lasts up to six hours

Furosemide (Lasix) belongs to the group of loop diuretics. The action is based on blocking the reverse absorption of sodium and chlorine in the tubules and the loop of Henle, the excretory apparatus of the kidneys. Simultaneously removes potassium. In order not to disturb the balance of electrolytes and not cause attacks of arrhythmia, potassium preparations are prescribed (Panangin, Asparkam).

Veroshpiron, unlike Furosemide, is a potassium-sparing drug. It contains spironolactone (adrenal hormone). It is with the help of the hormonal mechanism that it is possible to remove excess fluid without potassium. Tablets begin to act 2-5 days after the start of administration. The residual effect lasts 3 days after discontinuation of the drug.

Diakarb is a drug with a specific purpose. Especially indicated for the prevention of cerebral edema, less effective in the process of urine output. Its action begins 2 hours after ingestion. It is associated with blocking the enzyme carbonic anhydrase in the tissues of the kidneys and brain.

Surgical intervention

Most often, laparocentesis is used to remove accumulated fluid in the peritoneal cavity during the resistant stage of ascites. The method is considered surgical, although therapists in specialized departments own it.

The essence of the technique: the patient sits on a chair, the abdomen around the navel is treated with iodine. Novocain solution is injected into a point about 2 cm below the umbilical ring to provide local anesthesia. After that, a puncture of the abdominal wall is made with a special instrument (trocar). The appearance of fluid indicates entry into the peritoneal cavity. A tube is attached through which the liquid is pumped out by gravity.

Up to 10 liters of liquid are removed at a time. Against the background of a gradual decrease in the abdomen, the sheets are tightened to prevent the patient from collapsing. In some cases, if it is impossible to immediately withdraw a large volume of fluid into the peritoneal cavity, insert a drainage tube and block it until the next time. Thus, the procedure is repeated 2-3 days in a row.

During laparocentesis, it is necessary to monitor sterility, since the risk of infection of the peritoneum and peritonitis increases

Laparocentesis is not performed:

• with adhesive disease of the abdominal cavity;
• against the background of severe flatulence;
• in the recovery period after hernia repair.

Peritoneovenous shunting - consists in connecting a special tube of the abdominal cavity with the superior vena cava, through it, when the patient breathes, the fluid drains into the venous bed. Deperitonization - excision of areas of the peritoneum to provide additional ways to remove fluid.

Omentohepatophrenopexy - excision of the omentum fused with the anterior abdominal wall and suturing it to the diaphragm or liver, is necessary if the omentum interferes with laparocentesis.

Folk remedies in the treatment of ascites

In folk medicine, herbal tinctures are described that help reduce ascites in cancer. Doctors treat them extremely negatively, because often patients, believing in fabulous results, abandon the main treatment.

However, in the absence of real help from the ongoing therapy of a cancer patient, one can understand. Therefore, we provide a list of plants that, according to herbalists, can help:

• astragalus membranous;
• marsh calamus root;
• spurge;
• hoof grass root;
• herb prince Siberian;
• swamp saber.

Before purchasing herbal tea, it is better to consult a doctor and carefully read the composition

The overall survival rate of patients with ascites in oncological diseases gives disappointing figures - only half of the patients will live for two years. The final outcome is both better and worse than the expected time.

It depends on the patient's response to treatment, age, the presence of chronic diseases of the kidneys, liver, heart, and the nature of the tumor growth. Ascites in the initial stage with tumors is treated much more effectively. Therefore, in the treatment of malignant neoplasms, early diagnosis of complications should be provided.

Source: abdominal ascites with folk remedies

Ascites is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Normally, there is always a small amount of serous substance in the abdomen, which is necessary for the free placement of intestinal loops and their temporary movement during human movements. It also protects organs from friction and premature wear.

If serous fluid accumulates in large quantities, it becomes a threat to human life and health. In the initial stages of the disease, there is a real opportunity to remove excess fluid with the help of diuretics and a certain diet. Timely treatment of ascites with folk remedies is quite effective. In many cases, it avoids serious complications in the future.

Symptoms and Causes

Ascites, as a rule, does not occur on its own, but is a symptom of another (main) disease. The disease can be caused by:

• cirrhosis of the liver;
• disorders in the work of the cardiovascular system;
• malignant tumors.

Depending on the cause and severity of the disease, the abdomen may increase gradually or dramatically. The amount of accumulated fluid can be small, medium and very significant. In advanced cases, up to 25 liters of excess fluid can form in the abdominal cavity. The main symptoms of ascites:

• there is an increase in the size of the abdomen;
• there is a feeling of bloating and heaviness;
• in the prone position, the stomach becomes “flattened”, but at the same time it protrudes on the sides;
• there are periodic pulling pains in the stomach and intestines;
• swelling may occur in other parts of the body (usually they are concentrated on the legs);
• with a large abdomen, the navel protrudes;
• body weight due to the accumulation of excess fluid increases rapidly.

If left untreated, ascites may develop bacterial peritonitis, an infectious inflammation of the peritoneum that can only be treated surgically and can be fatal. To prevent this, you need to seek medical help in a timely manner when alarming symptoms appear. After the examination and diagnosis, you can agree with the doctor on the treatment options for ascites using folk remedies at home. In the initial stages of the disease, these methods are not inferior in effectiveness to pharmacy drugs. What is important, they have practically no side effects, that is, they are safe.

Diuretic folk remedies to eliminate edema

Folk remedies to eliminate edema are decoctions and infusions that have a diuretic effect. At home, you can use the following traditional medicine recipes:

1. Collection with bearberry. Dry and chop bearberry and hernia, mix in equal parts. 60 g of herbal mixture pour 0.3 liters of boiling water and cook over low heat for 30 minutes. After straining the decoction, it is recommended to take 300 ml in the morning on an empty stomach.
2. Parsley decoction. Pour 150 g of fresh parsley with 500 ml of hot water, bring to a boil and keep on low heat for 15 minutes. After that, the remedy must be filtered and taken 100 ml every hour in the morning (in total, you can drink up to 0.5 liters of broth per day).
3. Infusion of horsetail and birch leaves. These components must be mixed in equal parts and pour 500 g of the resulting collection of 0.5 liters of boiling water. Keep the remedy on low heat for 15 minutes, then strain and drink 200 ml in the morning.
4. Bean broth. For its preparation, it is necessary to rinse the husks from 15 pods of a legume plant and pour 1 liter of boiling water. Keep the product on low heat for 10 minutes, after which it should be infused for another 20 minutes under a closed lid. Drink the decoction in equal portions throughout the day.
5. Decoction of corn stigmas. To prepare this tool, you need 2 tbsp. l. vegetable raw materials pour 200 ml of boiling water and put in a water bath for 20 minutes. After filtering and cooling, the broth should be brought with boiled water to a total volume of 200 ml. It is recommended to take a healing agent 15 ml 3 times a day after meals.

Other treatments for ascites

Helps reduce the severity of edema in ascites bath with birch buds. First you need to prepare a concentrated solution. For this, 4 tsp. birch buds should be poured with a glass of boiling water and infused for 8 hours. Dilute the strained product with ordinary hot water and take a general bath for 15 minutes. This procedure stimulates sweating, helps to remove excess fluid from the body.

Apricots help to make up for the lack of potassium, which is washed out during ascites. Since the consumption of raw fruits is undesirable in this disease, a decoction must be prepared for therapeutic purposes. For 2 liters of water, you need to take 400 g of apricots, bring them to a boil and cook over low heat for 40 minutes. After cooling, the resulting drink should be consumed in small portions. You can drink up to 400 ml of apricot medicine per day.

It is useful for ascites to take tea from viburnum with honey. To do this, take 1 tsp in a glass of hot water. canned viburnum with sugar and mix well. After cooling, you can add a little honey to the product to improve the taste.

Onion juice gives a good effect, which you need to drink on an empty stomach in the morning. To do this, in the evening, the onion needs to be cut and sprinkled with sugar, during the night it will release the juice. You need to take it for 2 tbsp. l. every morning before breakfast. Cucumber juice has a diuretic effect. It can be squeezed from fresh vegetables and drunk 100 ml per day in small portions.

Diet

Compliance with a diet for ascites is necessary for successful treatment, since without it, not a single healing agent will have the desired effect. From the patient's diet, all semi-finished products, excessively fatty and spicy foods, bakery products and all dishes that increase gas formation should be completely excluded. Of the first courses, it is better to give preference to mashed soups cooked in vegetable or chicken broth. Be sure to remove the skin from the chicken before cooking. It is best to cook chicken broth from fillet or breast on the bone.

Fresh vegetables are undesirable. They need to be subjected to heat treatment (boil, steam). Fruits can be eaten only in dried form, cook compotes and jelly from them. Juices must be diluted 1:1 with water before drinking. The amount of liquid, including soups, in the diet should be limited to 2 liters per day (less, but not more). A very important point in the diet for ascites is the rejection of salt. It retains water in the body and leads to swelling, so it must be completely excluded from the diet for the duration of treatment. Salt can be replaced with natural mild seasonings (parsley, dill, dried herbs).

With ascites, you can eat fresh herbs, low-fat cottage cheese, cereals, boiled dietary meat and fish. For the duration of treatment, alcoholic beverages, strong coffee, tea, sauces and marinades should be completely excluded from the diet.

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• Respiratory 53
• Digestive 48
• Blood 45
• Reproductive 37
• Nervous 34
• Musculoskeletal 25
• excretory 21

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Source: treat ascites at home?

Ascites is an accumulation of excess fluid in the abdominal cavity.

Between the organs of the peritoneum and the loops of the intestine is a serous fluid, which ensures the free movement of organs. With the development of various pathologies, it can accumulate, which leads to the appearance of the disease.

Treatment of ascites at home is considered a very topical issue.

The reasons

The causes of the appearance of pathology are very diverse and are always associated with abnormal processes in the body. So what diseases cause ascites? The following disorders can lead to the development of the disease:

1. Diseases of the liver. Quite often, pathology develops with cirrhosis of the liver, malignant organ damage and the development of the Budd-Chiari syndrome. The development of cirrhosis can lead to hepatitis, the use of medications or alcohol. In any case, the disease provokes the death of hepatocytes. As a result, healthy liver cells are replaced by scar tissue, and the size of the organ increases. As a result, he pinches the portal vein, which leads to the development of ascites.
2. Heart diseases. Pathology can develop with heart failure or constrictive pericarditis. Ascites is due to the fact that the enlarged heart muscle cannot pump the required amount of blood. It accumulates in the vessels, and the inferior vena cava system is no exception. Under the influence of increased pressure, fluid exits the vessels and forms ascites.
3. Pathology of the kidneys. Chronic organ failure leads to the development of the disease, which can be the result of a variety of anomalies - pyelonephritis, urolithiasis, glomerulonephritis. All these pathologies provoke an increase in blood pressure, sodium with fluid is retained in the body, which causes ascites.
4. Damage to the lymphatic vessels. This may be the result of traumatic injury, the presence in the body of a tumor formation that gives metastases. Also, this condition occurs due to infection with filariae - worms that lay eggs in the lymphatic vessels.
5. Peritoneal lesions. These include tuberculous, fungal or diffuse peritonitis. Also, the cause can be a malignant lesion of the large intestine, breast, stomach, endometrium, ovaries. Often the cause is peritoneal carcinosis, mesothelioma and pseudomyxoma of the peritoneum.
6. Polyserositis. With the development of this disease, in addition to ascites, other symptoms appear - in particular, pericarditis, pleurisy.
7. Systemic diseases. Anomalies such as lupus erythematosus, rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.
8. Protein deficiency. This anomaly is one of the factors that creates the prerequisites for the development of the disease.
9. Pathologies of the digestive system. These include Crohn's disease, pancreatitis, chronic diarrhea. Also, the cause of the problem can be any processes that occur in the peritoneum and disrupt the outflow of lymph.
10. Myxedema. This anomaly is accompanied by swelling of soft tissues and mucous membranes. Its development is associated with a violation of the production of thyroid hormones - thyroxine and triiodothyronine.
11. Eating disorders. Strict diets and starvation are especially dangerous in this regard. This leads to the depletion of protein reserves, which provokes a serious decrease in oncotic pressure.

In some cases, pathology is diagnosed in newborns. It may be due to hemolytic disease of the fetus, which is associated with an immunological conflict.

Ascites - fluid in the abdomen

Symptoms

Before dealing with pathology, its clinical picture should be analyzed. Symptoms may come on gradually or appear suddenly over several days or hours.

The main manifestation of ascites is a significant increase in the size of the abdomen and a noticeable weight gain. At the same time, many people complain of the appearance of arching pains, nausea, heartburn, flatulence, and belching.

As the abdomen enlarges, the navel protrudes and the skin tightens. In the vertical position, the abdomen hangs down, while in the horizontal position it spreads out on the sides and protrudes in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe ribs.

With a significant increase in volume, pronounced shortness of breath, swelling of the limbs, impaired motor activity are observed. It can be difficult for a person to bend over.

Often patients complain of hernia and hemorrhoids. Many patients experience rectal prolapse and develop varicocele.

Depending on the cause of the disease, general symptoms may also occur:

• fever;
• expansion of veins in the abdomen;
• toxicosis;
• general weight loss against the background of an increase in the size of the abdomen;
• bluish tint of limbs.

In total, quite a lot of fluid can accumulate in the abdominal cavity. This indicator is 5-20 liters.

Medical treatment

How to treat ascites? This question worries many people. The main drugs that are used to remove excess fluid from the body are diuretics.

The use of such funds helps to ensure the transition of excess fluid from the peritoneum into the bloodstream. This allows you to significantly reduce the manifestations of pathology.

At the initial stage of therapy, the patient is prescribed a small amount of diuretics. This helps to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

The key principle of diuretic therapy lies in the slow increase in diuresis. This will help prevent significant loss of potassium and other essential metabolites. In most cases, drugs such as Verospiron, Aldactone, Amiloride are used.

In addition to diuretics, your doctor may prescribe potassium supplements. Also, the treatment regimen must include hepatoprotectors.

During the treatment period, specialists carry out daily monitoring of the patient's diuresis. If the use of drugs does not give the desired effect, they are changed to stronger drugs. It can be Dichlothiazide or Triampur.

Also, during the period of therapy, medications are necessarily prescribed that help strengthen the walls of blood vessels. These include vitamins C and P, Diosmin.

It is useful to take drugs that prevent the removal of fluid from the vascular bed. These include Reopoliglyukin.

To normalize the metabolism of liver cells, protein preparations are administered. Usually, concentrated plasma or Albumin solution with a concentration of 20% is used for this. If the disease is of bacterial origin, antibiotics are indicated.

Many people wonder if ascites can be cured. Medications help get rid of excess fluid. To fully cope with the disease, you need to eliminate the provoking factor.

Folk remedies

Answering the question of how to get rid of pathology, one cannot fail to mention effective folk methods. Of course, they will not help to completely cure the disease, but they will significantly improve the human condition.

Treatment of ascites with folk remedies is carried out using the following products:

1. Infusion of cherry stalks. To do this, take a large spoonful of dried raw materials, add 500 ml of boiling water and leave to infuse for several hours. Strained means to use 200 ml 3-4 times a day. The course of therapy is 2 weeks. Then you need to take a break for a week.
2. Flax seeds. To prepare a healing agent, you need to take 4 small spoons of seeds, add 1 liter of water. Boil and put on a small fire for a quarter of an hour. Infuse for several hours and consume half a glass up to 7 times a day. This recipe is highly effective. Results will be available within 2 weeks. This composition helps with the appearance of internal edema. The course of therapy is 1 month. Then the treatment should be repeated after 10 days.
3. Collection of herbs. To ensure a normal water-salt balance and kidney function, you should mix the leaves of currant, wild rose, lingonberry and raspberry in equal parts. Pour half a glass of raw materials with 500 ml of water and cook for 10 minutes. Consume after meals instead of tea. This remedy has an excellent diuretic effect.
4. Decoction of parsley seeds. To make it, 1 large spoonful of seeds or the entire crushed plant should be mixed with 2 cups of boiling water, wrapped and left for 10 hours. Consume 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day. The decoction should be taken with caution. At first, it should be drunk 2 days in a row, then interrupted for 3 days.
5. A decoction of birch leaves and buds. This tool will give good results if the cause of the pathology is a violation of the heart. Also in this situation it is useful to take an infusion of bedstraw and consume a large amount of parsley. In addition, it is useful to include pumpkin and juice of this vegetable in the menu.
6. A decoction of oatmeal. After the oats start to ripen, you need to collect fresh straw. Take 40 g of raw materials and add 1 liter of water. Drink half a glass 3-4 times a day. A decoction is useful to take with pathologies of various origins.
7. Diuretics. If puffiness is caused by disorders in the functioning of the kidneys, it is useful to use an infusion of stigmas of corn, horsetail, and bean pods. Diuretic fees and teas are no less effective. To prepare them, it is worth taking bearberry leaves and hernia grass in equal parts, dry thoroughly and grind. Place the resulting product in a glass container and take it like tea. Mix half a glass of raw materials with 2 glasses of water and cook over low heat for a quarter of an hour. Consume 30 minutes before meals.

Nutrition Features

Diet in ascites plays a key role, especially in the initial stages of the disease. To achieve good results, you must strictly observe all the prohibitions.

So, the following should not be eaten:

• fresh pastries from puff pastry or pastry;
• offal;
• sausages and smoked meats;
• stew;
• fatty, fried, spicy, salty foods;
• strong meat, mushroom and fish broths;
• fatty dairy products;
• some vegetables - cabbage, radish, garlic, onion, sorrel, radish, mushrooms.

At the same time, nutrition must be complete. The menu should contain a variety of products.

It is helpful to use the following:

• eggs in the form of a protein omelet;
• cereals - the exception is millet and legumes;
• mashed soups based on chicken, turkey and rabbit;
• minced meat dishes;
• fish in steam or boiled form;
• stale bread;
• warm drinks;
• jelly;
• marshmallow.

Course and forecast

Many people are interested in whether this ailment itself can pass.

Unfortunately, ascites does not disappear without adequate therapy, but is constantly progressing. This anomaly significantly worsens the prognosis of the underlying disease and is an unfavorable sign in terms of prognosis.

Ascites may be complicated by bleeding, peritonitis, spleen or liver failure.

There is also a threat of brain damage due to swelling. The average number of deaths within 2 years with severe ascites is 50%.

Prevention

To prevent the development of the disease, you need to engage in its prevention:

1. Correctly and timely treat pathologies that can provoke ascites. These include hepatitis, cirrhosis, and portal hypertension.
2. Follow a diet. Experts advise limiting the use of useless liquids that do not quench your thirst - coffee, carbonated drinks.
3. Avoid excessive physical and psychological stress.

Now you know how to remove this pathology. To do this, first of all, you need to deal with the treatment of the underlying ailment, which led to the appearance of ascites.

To do this, it is necessary to conduct a detailed diagnosis and strictly adhere to all medical recommendations.

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Source:

Ascites (abdominal dropsy) is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. The amount of transudate in this condition can be up to 20-25 liters.

Treatment of ascites is carried out by eliminating the cause of the development of the disease, as well as reducing the amount of accumulated fluid with the help of a diet, in severe cases, they resort to a puncture of the peritoneum and outflow of transudate into the external environment. In addition, the problem of treating abdominal ascites with folk remedies is relevant.

What is the purpose of traditional medicine for ascites?

It is not very reasonable to use exclusively alternative methods of treatment to combat dropsy of the abdomen, since the pathological condition is fraught with a number of serious complications (for example, the appearance of bacterial peritonitis).

It is important to combine medical and surgical methods with the use of medicinal herbs and products that have a therapeutic effect. First of all, recipes are used, the components of which have a diuretic effect. The removal of excess fluid is the basis of symptomatic therapy.

However, one should not only remove fluid from the abdomen, but also eliminate the main cause of the pathological condition. Folk healers also advise taking infusions and decoctions based on medicinal plants, which will strengthen the patient's body's defenses and help activate metabolic processes.

Foods used in the treatment of dropsy

One of the well-known products that should be in the individual menu of a sick person is pumpkin. It enhances the excretion of salts from the body, which reduces the risk of retention of pathological fluid in the abdominal cavity and the appearance of swelling. Pumpkin reduces the load on the heart muscle, cleanses the patient's body of toxins and toxic substances.

The next important product is apricot. This is a source of potassium, which is necessary for the proper functioning of internal organs, subject to the use of diuretics and infusions based on medicinal plants.

Parsley is a representative of the beds, which has powerful antioxidant properties. Eating greens in food can enhance the effectiveness of other vegetables and fruits used in the treatment of ascitic pathology.

Enlargement of the abdomen, dull pain and excessive gas formation are the main symptoms of ascites.

Treatment of ascites with folk remedies

Treatment with folk remedies has always remained an urgent problem. After all, many people cannot withstand a strict diet or decide on a puncture of the abdominal cavity.

Recipe number 1. A decoction of bean pods

Peel the beans (about 20-25 g) and pour the resulting pods with 1 liter of clean water. Put everything on fire and bring to a boil. Boil for another 10 minutes on low heat and let stand and cool for 40 minutes.

Take the decoction orally 3 times a day, but no later than 8 pm. Due to the excellent diuretic effect, excess fluid will leave the body. In addition, you need to limit yourself in the amount of water consumed.

Recipe number 2. A decoction of parsley leaves or seeds

Pour parsley leaves or seeds (about 300 g) with 1 liter of water, bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes. After that, remove the broth from heat, cool and strain through cheesecloth. It is necessary to take the drug for 3 days every day from the very morning with an interval of 60 minutes. The total amount of liquid drunk should not exceed half a liter in 24 hours.

Recipe number 3. Horsetail and birch leaves

The components for the preparation of the medicinal product are mixed in equal proportions, and pour 0.5 liters of boiled water. Bring to a boil, cook for 20 minutes, cool and strain the broth. Take orally 200 ml every morning for 7-10 days.

Recipe number 4. Apricot fruit compote

Fresh or dried apricots (1 cup) are poured with 1 liter of water and compote is boiled for 40 minutes without adding sugar.

The resulting broth is separated from the fruit and filtered. Drink 1 glass of the drug every morning, with a positive effect, the dosage can be increased to 0.4 liters per day. The duration of treatment is several weeks.

Recipe number 5. A decoction of bearberry and hernia

In equal proportions, mix 2 plants and pour 300 ml of boiling water. Everything is cooked on low heat for 30-40 minutes, then cooled and carefully filtered. The resulting decoction is taken orally 300 ml daily for 2-3 weeks in the morning before meals.

Recipe number 6. Linden tea and coltsfoot

Linden flowers and coltsfoot flowers are mixed in equal proportions and immersed in 500 ml of pure water, brought to a boil and boiled for a quarter of an hour. The finished broth is removed from the heat, insisted for another 15 minutes, cooled and taken orally 4 times a day, 100 ml in a warm form. The duration of treatment is 10-14 days.

Linden tea with the addition of coltsfoot is an excellent option for the treatment of ascites

Recipe number 7. birch wraps

A clean cotton cloth is immersed in a prepared decoction of birch leaves (at the rate of 100 g per bucket of water), the patient is completely wrapped around, starting from the armpits and ending with the knees. As soon as possible, wind a second dry sheet on top and a third layer of a woolen scarf or blanket.

It is necessary to take a lying position, and cover with another blanket on top. The duration of the procedure is at least 1.5 hours. After the end of the procedure, everything is removed, but drafts or contact with cold air should not be allowed.

Recipe number 8. Oat straw infusion

One handful of fresh straw is taken per 1 liter of water. Infused for 2-3 days in a dark and cool place. It is recommended to take the drug 150 ml 3-4 times a day. The infusion is effective for any accumulation of fluid in organs and tissues.

Recipe number 9. Herbal collection: nettle, plantain, St. John's wort, rose hips and bearberry

One tablespoon of herbs is poured with cold boiled water and infused for 6-8 hours. After that, put the infusion on the fire and boil for 15-20 minutes over low heat. The broth is filtered, cooled and taken orally 50 ml 4 times a day.

Recipe number 10. Infusion of cherry stalks

One tablespoon of dried cherry stalks is poured with 1.5 liters of boiling water, covered and infused for 3-4 hours. The resulting liquid is filtered and taken orally in a glass 3-4 times a day. The duration of treatment should be at least 2 weeks. Then take a break for 7 days and repeat the course.

Remember! Before using any folk remedy, you should consult a specialist.

In addition, if during treatment with ascites an allergic reaction of the body or a deterioration in the condition was detected, the therapy should be stopped immediately!

Diet for ascites is an integral treatment option. It greatly facilitates the life of the patient. Food prohibitions are especially effective in the initial stages of the disease, since they largely determine the further development of the secondary condition. The diet is prescribed in combination with drug treatment to reduce the manifestation of ascites.

Medical treatment of ascites

The internal organs and the abdominal cavity of a person are shrouded in a thin tissue - the peritoneum. Her blood and lymphatic vessels secrete a small amount of fluid necessary for the free movement of intestinal loops and preventing the internal organs from sticking together. This fluid is absorbed by the peritoneum itself, so the body controls this process. In case of failures in the body, the process of absorption of the secreted fluid is disrupted, or a large amount of it is released. This pathology is called ascites of the abdominal cavity or dropsy of the abdomen.

Ascites is not an independent disease - it is only a symptom of a severe disorder in the body. It always develops as a complication of other diseases.

Conservative therapy of ascites is based on the suppression of the underlying disease and depends on the cause of the primary pathology. For all types of dropsy, drugs are prescribed - diuretics to normalize water-salt metabolism and reduce the formation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

The initial course of treatment includes such drugs as: Veroshpiron, Aldactone, Spironolactone. In case of ineffectiveness of therapy with these drugs, a more potent drug Furosemide or Torasemide is added.

Drugs such as Captopril, Enalapril may be prescribed. They increase the excretion of sodium from the body and at the same time retain potassium.

The attending physician prescribes doses of drugs individually, depending on the underlying disease and the patient's well-being. It is necessary to take into account the fact that the use of high dosages can lead to side effects.

Uncontrolled and excessive use of diuretics can put the body at risk of dehydration.

In the treatment of abdominal ascites, multivitamin complexes are prescribed that have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the body as a whole. It is recommended to administer them in the form of injection solutions, given the violation of the absorption of vitamins from the intestine.

Complicated ascites require the use of surgical methods of treatment. A widely used surgical procedure for ascites is laparocentesis - puncture (tissue puncture) removal of fluid from the abdominal cavity. In complicated ascites, a permanent catheter is installed for prolonged fluid withdrawal.

Treatment of ascites with folk remedies

Many people believe that you should not neglect the proven methods of treatment of traditional medicine, which has thousands of years of practical experience and is still relevant.

Treatment of ascites with folk remedies is dynamically used in complex therapy with drug treatment aimed at eliminating the main cause that provoked the development of this disease. Natural diuretics help to remove excess fluid from the abdominal cavity and thereby facilitate the work of internal organs.

Before treating ascites with traditional medicine, you should consult a doctor, as the consequences of this treatment can be significant.

Parsley with milk

To remove the unpleasant symptoms of dropsy of the abdomen, you can use parsley with milk. When taking this remedy, the fluid from the abdominal cavity leaves already on the 2nd day. For a decoction, you will need 0.5 liters of milk and a large bunch of parsley. Boil the milk, add the chopped parsley to the milk. Simmer the resulting mixture over low heat for at least 2 hours, then cool and strain. Drink the prepared drug every hour for 2 tbsp. l. Store the diuretic in a cool place.

Lemon and horseradish

An effective treatment for ascites is an infusion of lemon and horseradish. For infusion, you need to take 100 g of squeezed lemon and chopped horseradish, mix and let it brew for 1 night. Take 1 tsp. daily for 2 weeks. Store the tincture in the refrigerator.

Coltsfoot and sweet clover

With the accumulation of unnecessary fluid, a decoction of coltsfoot and sweet clover will help to cope. The coltsfoot grass and sweet clover flowers should be taken in equal proportions, crushed and mixed. For 1 tsp. you will need a glass of boiling water, stand for half an hour and use 2 tbsp. l. 3 times a day.

Red root

Treatment of dropsy with folk remedies, such as red root (tea kopek), is widely used in Tibetan folk medicine.

To prepare the infusion, you need 2 tbsp. l. finely chopped root, pour 0.5 liters of vodka and let it brew for 10 days. Take an infusion of 1 tsp. 3 times a day. The duration of treatment is not more than 30 days.

A popular remedy for eliminating abdominal ascites is an infusion of dried apricots. In addition to the main diuretic effect, it replenishes a significant part of the need for potassium in the body. It is necessary to pour 200 g of well-washed dried fruits with boiling water (0.5 l) and tightly close the container, and it is better to use a thermos to prepare the infusion. It must be insisted for at least 6 hours. You need to take the remedy 2 times a day, 150 ml.

diuretic tea

For the preparation of diuretic tea, you can use a collection of dried raspberries, lingonberries, currants and rose hips. You need to take 4 tbsp. l. mixture, pour 250 g of boiling water and boil for 20 minutes. Allow the broth to cool, strain and take 2 times a day instead of tea.

Nettle can become the basis for diuretic tea. The remedy helps if it is used at an early stage of ascites. Finely chop dried nettle roots, take 1 tsp. 1 cup boiling water, insist and drink 2 cups a day.

An effective remedy for dropsy is a decoction of the root of angelica forest. For its preparation, dried and crushed root is used. To obtain a medicine, it is necessary to use dried and crushed raw materials. To prepare the daily norm of decoction 1 tbsp. l. root pour a glass of water and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes. The resulting broth is divided into 3 doses.

Diet for ascites

Diet, that is, a specially designed nutrition system, is one of the main components of the treatment of many diseases.

The diet for ascites should be aimed at preventing fluid retention in the body. To do this, you need to minimize salt intake and reduce fluid intake. When following a diet, the patient should eat boiled or steamed food.

With this disease, a ban is imposed on sour, spicy and fatty foods.

From the diet it is necessary to remove meat delicacies that contain the so-called hidden fats (pork skin, lard, visceral fat) and smoked products. Pork and other fatty meats should be replaced with rabbit, turkey and chicken meat. It is not recommended to consume dairy products with high fat content.

Fresh bakery products are unacceptable for this disease. Some vegetables should be avoided:

• turnips;
• sorrel;
• radish;
• Luke;
• garlic;
• radish.

It is necessary to forget about coffee, cocoa and carbonated drinks. You can drink weakly brewed green tea, which is not only a treasure trove of many vitamins, but also has a pronounced diuretic effect. Fruits must be included in the diet in dried form or prepared from them compote. From sweets, you can afford only marshmallows or jam.

In the patient's diet, foods containing a large amount of potassium must be present, such as:

• spinach;
• grapefruits;
• eggplant;
• dried apricots;
• baked potato;
• asparagus;
• raisin;
• carrot;
• green pea.

Allowed cereals that do not contain millet and legumes. It is recommended to use nuts (walnuts, hazelnuts, peanuts), after mixing them with honey.

The diet must be strictly observed, and the patient must be aware of the seriousness of proper nutrition.

In the treatment of abdominal dropsy, therapeutic starvation is effective. It should be carried out systematically and from the very beginning of the disease. Fasting should be carried out 1 time in 2 months for a week, drinking only 2 cups of tea without sugar per day. It is recommended to do enemas every evening during fasting. After this procedure, the transition to regular food should be gradual.

Ascites of the abdominal cavity is a pathological process that is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, the volume of which can reach 25 liters. The cause of the pathology can be various diseases of the liver, gastrointestinal tract and other organs. The accumulated fluid may have impurities of pus, the so-called exudate, which indicates the development of inflammation in the body. With ascites of the abdominal cavity, treatment with folk remedies, along with taking medications, gives a positive result. But home therapy is possible only in cases where the disease is not caused by inflammatory processes, otherwise the patient's condition may worsen in the absence of necessary treatment in the clinic.

How pathology manifests itself

The clinical picture with ascites shows a high level of protein and leukocytes contained in the biomaterial taken from the abdomen by puncture. This phenomenon can serve as the beginning of the development of peritonitis - inflammation of all organs of the abdominal cavity.

The physical manifestations of ascites include:

• a sharp and unreasonable increase in the abdomen;
• protrusion of the navel, which is due to fluid pressure on the walls of the peritoneum;
• with a large amount of accumulated biomaterial, a hernia may occur;
• covering the skin of the abdomen with a venous mesh.

Patient complaints are often added:

• dyspnea;
• discomfort in the abdominal cavity;
• labored breathing.

The lungs are squeezed due to the large volume of fluid, while not allowing normal breathing. A person can also feel pressure on the diaphragm of varying intensity.

Factors causing the development of abdominal ascites

Ascites is not a primary disease, but a consequence of other pathologies present in the patient's body. The reasons for its occurrence include:

• high blood pressure in the portal vein;
• metastases affecting the abdominal organs during oncological processes (carcinomatosis);
• replacement of parenchymal liver tissue with fibrous tissue, which is called cirrhosis;
• inflammatory processes in the liver due to alcohol exposure and its insufficiency;
• abdominal tuberculosis;
• kidney diseases that have developed as a result of long fasting;
• heart failure;
• acute form of pancreatitis - inflammation of the pancreas.

It is necessary to treat abdominal ascites taking into account the underlying disease. But in order to establish the exact cause of the pathology, it is necessary to undergo an examination that will show what exactly caused the accumulation of fluid. The patient also needs to pay attention to accompanying symptoms that will help narrow down the range of possible diagnoses.

Diagnostics

The examination begins with a face-to-face examination of the patient by a doctor. The doctor collects a detailed history, which in the future will help to make the correct diagnosis. The patient is sent for an examination, which includes:

• x-ray of the peritoneum;
• laparocentesis - sampling of biomaterial from the abdomen for research.

The latter procedure not only helps to find out the cause of the pathology, but also improves the patient's condition, since the amount of fluid in the peritoneum decreases and the person can breathe and move normally again for some time.

Treatment in a medical setting

As mentioned earlier, before treating ascites, it is necessary to identify the cause that caused it and make every effort to eliminate it. But if the fluid accumulated in the abdomen threatens the health and life of the patient (when its volume exceeds 15 liters), then the attending physician prescribes its emergency removal. The patient is prescribed laparocentesis - a puncture of the abdominal cavity, due to which excess biological fluid is removed from the abdomen.

Surgical intervention can provoke bleeding, perforation of the intestine (getting its contents into the abdominal cavity), adhesions, infection of the body.

folk therapy

Prior to the diagnosis, during the examination by specialists, the patient can treat ascites with folk remedies. Their action is aimed at removing excess fluid from the abdomen and preventing its accumulation.

bean pods

Bean pods have a good diuretic effect. Excess fluid is excreted from the body, significantly facilitating the patient's condition.

To prepare the medicine at home, you need to peel 15 pods from the seed, place the remaining husk in a small saucepan, pour 1 liter of water and boil for 15 minutes. Let it brew for 30 minutes, strain. You need to drink a cooled medicine, so it can be prepared in the evening. Take 100 ml three times a day:

• in the morning after waking up;
• before breakfast;
• After dinner.

After three days, the result will be noticeable: the patient will breathe easier, shortness of breath will disappear and the stomach will decrease in volume.

Parsley

To prepare the medicine you need:

1. Rinse thoroughly with 300 g of parsley.
2. Pour greens with a liter of hot water.
3. Put on fire for a quarter of an hour.
4. Strain.

It is necessary to take the medicine for three days. You need to drink a decoction from the moment you wake up until late in the evening, the interval between doses is 1.5 hours.

Apricot

To prepare a medicinal decoction, you can use fresh or dried apricots. A glass of pitted fruits is boiled in a liter of water for 40–60 minutes, filtered and drunk daily, 200 ml each. The amount of compote consumed per day can be doubled if the patient's condition improves markedly.

Diuretic and diaphoretic teas

To get rid of excess fluid in the body is possible only through its intensive removal. For this, tea is perfect, which has an effective diuretic effect:

1. Mix 3 tablespoons of hernia and bearberry, pour 0.5 liters of water, bring to a boil and cook over low heat until the broth becomes dark and strong. Strain the remedy and cool. Take a glass on an empty stomach. The effect will be noticeable already on the second day.
2. Dilute a teaspoon of viburnum rubbed with sugar in 250 ml of warm water. Take a glass up to four times a day. Honey can be added to the product to improve its taste.
3. Not only diuretic tea will help to remove excess fluid. You can also use products that increase perspiration. Similarly to the first recipe, a mixture of coltsfoot and linden is brewed, drunk warm, 250 ml four times a day.

Patients should limit their daily fluid intake, so in addition to diaphoretic tea, you can drink no more than 0.5 liters of water so that the result is as effective as possible.

Onion

After waking up, you need to drink 2 tablespoons of onion juice. On the eve of the evening, the average onion is cut into cubes and plentifully covered with sugar. In the morning, drain the juice and store it in the refrigerator.

Cucumber

As you know, cucumber has an effective diuretic effect. Freshly squeezed cucumber juice drink 2 tablespoons six times a day. It is better not to prepare a lot of juice in advance, but to prepare fresh each time.

Corn silk

To remove the liquid, it is necessary to prepare a decoction of corn stigmas:

1. 2 tablespoons of dry ingredients pour a glass of boiling water.
2. Simmer the medicine in a water bath for half an hour.
3. The prepared product is filtered and cooled.
4. Dilute the decoction with a glass of water.

Drink the remedy should be a tablespoon after meals three times a day.

Birch infusion bath

You can treat ascites with folk remedies in combination with water procedures. A good effect is given by a bath with an infusion of birch leaves and buds.. It increases perspiration by removing excess fluid. Four tablespoons of the collection pour 250 ml of boiling water and leave to infuse overnight. You should get an infusion of high concentration, which can be understood by the characteristic smell. The resulting product is added to a warm bath and water procedures are taken for 20 minutes.

Food

An important role in the treatment is played by the diet, as well as the quality of the consumed products. With ascites, it is important to exclude from the diet:

• puff pastry and pastries;
• fast food, stew, canned food, smoked sausages, offal;
• meals high in fat;
• salt and hot spices;
• rich fatty foods;
• roast;
• fatty dairy products;
• vegetables that irritate the stomach: cabbage, onions, turnips, radishes and others.

The patient needs to adhere to a sparing diet, which will help to avoid the complications of pathological accumulation of fluid in the peritoneum. The menu must include products and dishes:

• protein omelettes (you can eat proteins from a maximum of three eggs per week);
• cereals, except millet;
• stewed or boiled diet poultry (turkey, chicken);
• soup-puree from rabbit meat;
• fish, steamed or boiled;
• two-day bread, crackers;
• marshmallow, jelly;
• weak tea.

Diet and traditional medicine recipes will help prevent an increase in accumulated fluid both during diagnosis and throughout the entire period of treatment of the underlying disease.

Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, usually caused by cirrhosis of the liver, but can also be a symptom of other diseases.

Consider the types and causes of fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity and we will analyze the symptoms and typical signs.

What is ascites - characteristics

Ascites is the medical term used in gastroenterology to refer to pathological accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity.

The function of the fluids in the abdominal cavity is to ensure the free sliding of the membranes of the peritoneum and internal organs. Under normal conditions, the abdominal cavity contains 10 to 30 milliliters of liquid, and in some cases of severe ascites, more than 10 liters may accumulate.

Fluid accumulation happens in two ways:

• Exudation, that is, the formation of exudate - a fluid that comes from blood vessels, due to an increase in their permeability during a local inflammatory process. Inflammation is known to be associated with the formation of a number of chemical mediators, including histamine. Their task is to increase the permeability of tissues so that it is easier for the cells of the immune system to reach the site of inflammation. An increase in permeability leads to the fact that the walls of blood vessels begin to pass blood serum. From here appears ascitic fluid, which in such conditions is rich in proteins, as well as blood cells (in particular, albumin and leukocytes).
• extravasation, that is, the formation of a transudate, which also has a vascular origin, but is released without inflammation, but due to an increase in hydrostatic pressure inside the vessel. The ascitic fluid thus formed is poor in proteins and blood cells, and therefore has a lower specific gravity.

The difference between the concentration of albumin in ascitic fluid used to evaluate the form of origin. This parameter is referred to as SAAG. If the SAAG value is below 1 mg/dL, then it is an exudate, and, conversely, if the SAAG is greater than 1 mg/dL, it is a transudate.

Classification and types of ascites

It is generally accepted to classify ascites according to its severity, i.e. depending on the volume of fluid accumulated in the abdominal cavity.

Here you can highlight:

• Ascites grade 1 or mild . The amount of fluid is negligible, not obvious to most diagnostic methods, and can only be detected with an abdominal ultrasound.
• Ascites grade 2 or moderate . It can be identified semiotically, by a characteristic dull sound.
• Ascites grade 3 or severe . It can be detected by simple observation, the volume of the abdominal cavity is greatly increased, and the abdomen is tense.

Symptoms that accompany ascites

The symptoms that ascites manifests, of course, are highly dependent on the severity of the condition. If a mild ascites, then it does not appear no symptoms, it is difficult to detect even with the help of instrumental examinations, only ultrasound or CT of the abdominal cavity helps.

If a ascites is severe, accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Bloating and heaviness of the abdomen.
• Bloating, swelling and increase in the volume of the abdomen.
• Breathing problems due to the pressure of the contents of the abdominal cavity on the diaphragm. Squeezing leads to dyspnea (shortness of breath, short and rapid breathing).
• pain in a stomach.
• flat navel.
• Lack of appetite and an instant feeling of satiety.
• Swollen ankles (edema) due to excess fluid.
• Other typical symptoms of the disease such as portal hypertension (resistance to blood flow) in the absence of cirrhosis.

Diagnosis of ascites

If the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity does not exceed the minimum threshold, which is about half a liter, then they speak of mild ascites, which can only be detected using abdominal ultrasound. In the case of volumes exceeding the specified, diagnosis is possible without additional studies.

The specialist you should contact is gastroenterologist. He will formulate a diagnosis and look for the disease that led to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity, using:

Anamnesis – medical history of the patient and family, information about previous diseases, therapy used, lifestyle, for example, alcohol abuse, etc.

Symptom analysis : ascites is characterized by a number of "unmistakable" signs:

• frog belly. It can be seen when the patient lies on his side. In this position, the fluid in the abdominal cavity drains to one side and the abdomen takes on a shape similar to a frog or toad.
• dull sound- characteristic of a barrel filled with liquid.
• drum sound- typical of an empty barrel or cavity containing gas.
• splash sound- if you hit with the palm of your hand, and on the other hand, attach your palm.

The formulated hypothesis will be confirmed by a series clinical research:

Blood analysis aimed at evaluating:

• liver function- enzymes (transaminases) and proteins (albumin, blood coagulation factors);
• kidney function- creatinine, azotemia;

General blood analysis- the number of corpuscular cells in the blood.

Electrolyte concentration- sodium, potassium, chlorine, which affect fluid retention.

Ultrasound or CT scan of the abdomen allow you to assess the amount of fluid accumulated in the abdominal cavity, and the condition of organs, such as the liver and spleen (its increase is an accurate sign of portal hypertension).

Puncture study. It consists in introducing a thin needle through the abdominal wall to obtain a sample of fluid and analyze it.

In particular, the following analyzes are performed:

• Search and evaluation of albumin concentration.
• Seeding culture in order to detect possible infections and their pathogens.
• Cytological analysis to identify possible neoplasms.
• Finding and counting blood cells such as leukocytes.
• Amylase Search. The presence of amylase, an enzyme that speeds up the breakdown reactions of complex sugars, is a sign of damage to the pancreas and hence pancreatitis.

Causes of accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity

The disease that most often leads to ascites is cirrhosis of the liver In fact, more than 70% of patients with abdominal fluid problems suffer from complications of cirrhosis, and half of patients with cirrhosis experience ascites.

However, ascites can also have many other causes, all very serious, such as: abdominal tumors, heart failure, etc..

In the following table, we have compiled the main causes (pathologies that cause the problem), gave a brief description and the main symptoms that accompany ascites.

Causes that determine the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity due to extravasation:

The reasons that determine the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity due to exudation:

Treatment of ascites

Since ascites is a symptom, treatment involves therapy in the direction of the underlying disease. So, for example, if ascites is a consequence of cirrhosis, then a liver transplant is required, but if there is tumor ascites, surgical removal of the tumor and restorative treatment are necessary.

However, it is often necessary treat a symptom, then proceed as follows:

• Bed rest.
• Diet low in salt and therefore low in sodium. This increases diuresis and therefore promotes the elimination of fluid accumulated in the peritoneum.
• Taking diuretics. The most commonly used is spironolactone.
• Therapeutic paracentesis. It consists in removing with a needle ascitic fluid accumulated in the abdominal cavity. Used in case of severe tension in the abdomen, large volumes of fluid or insensitivity of the patient to the action of diuretics.

Ascites is an accumulation of effusion in the peritoneal cavity, outside of any organ.

It is characterized by an increase in the abdomen, an increase in intra-abdominal pressure, which disrupts the work of not only the abdominal organs, but also the lungs and heart.

This condition develops due to a fairly large number of pathologies of various internal organs and systems, but in 75% of cases ascites is a complication of liver cirrhosis.

Pathology is detected using physical (doctor's examination) and instrumental (ultrasound, CT) examination methods. The treatment of this condition is very laborious and is often carried out (along with the therapy of the disease that caused the development of ascites) throughout a person's life.

Causes of ascites

The main reasons for the development of ascites in the abdominal cavity can be called the following:

1. 1) - the cause of ascites in ¾ people.
2. 2) Malignant neoplasms are the causes of 10% of ascites.
3. 3) Heart failure causes the development of the disease in 5% of cases.

1. 4) An increase in pressure in the portal vein of the liver, which is not due to cirrhosis, but is a consequence of blocking the blood outflow: through the hepatic veins (with their thrombosis); at the subhepatic level (thrombosis of the portal vein, its compression by tumors or adhesions of nearby organs).
2. 5) Kidney diseases:,.
3. 6) A significant lack of human nutrition.
4. 7) Seeding of the peritoneum with tumor cells (carcinomatosis) of cancer of the intestines, stomach, breast, gynecological organs
5. 8) Tuberculosis of the peritoneum.
6. 9) Own tumors of the peritoneum - mesothelioma, pseudomyxoma.
7. 10) Gynecological diseases: cysts, ovarian tumors.
8. 11) Endocrine disorders, for example, myxedema.
9. 12) Ascites as a manifestation of inflammation of all serous membranes in rheumatism, uremia, Meigs' syndrome,.
10. 13) Diseases of the digestive system: sarcoidosis.
11. 14) Violation of the outflow of lymph through the vessels from the abdominal cavity.
12. 15) Inflammation of the peritoneum of non-infectious etiology: granulomatous and eosinophilic peritonitis.

1. 1) Congenital edema caused by Rh or group incompatibility. With such diseases, almost 100% mortality of the child is observed immediately after birth.
2. 2) Congenital edema, which developed as a result of latent blood loss that occurred in the prenatal period.
3. 3) With congenital anomalies in the development or functioning of the liver and biliary tract. This ascites may appear in infants.
4. 4) With congenital nephrotic (accompanied by edema) syndrome.
5. 5) Exudative enteropathy, when plasma protein is lost through the intestines.
6. 6) Kwashiorkor is a disease associated with a lack of protein in the diet of a child.

Risk factors

• long-term alcohol abuse;
• chronic hepatitis, not necessarily of viral etiology;
• injection drug use;
• blood transfusion;
• tattoo;
• living in a region where cases of chronic viral hepatitis are frequent;
• obesity;

Why does ascites develop?

The abdominal cavity is lined from the inside with a thin serous membrane - the peritoneum. It wraps some organs completely, others - only from several sides, and does not directly touch the third at all.

This shell releases a certain amount of fluid, somewhat similar in composition to blood plasma, so that the internal organs do not stick together, but can function freely.

This liquid is subjected to repeated absorption and excretion during the day. The lymphatic system also takes part in the process of its exchange.

With ascites one of the functions is broken peritoneum:

• fluid release;
• its reabsorption;
• providing a barrier to many substances, including toxins.

1) Decreased colloid blood pressure:

• there are fewer and fewer normal liver cells - they are replaced by scar tissue;
• less protein is synthesized;
• less protein-albumin in the blood - lower plasma pressure;
• fluid begins to leave the vessels into the tissues and body cavities.

3) The body tries to "unload" the veins, increasing the lymph flow. As a result, the lymphatic system also ceases to cope with the prohibitive load - lymphatic hypertension develops. Fluid from the lymphatic vessels oozes into the abdominal cavity. For some time, the peritoneum absorbs excess fluid, but then it ceases to cope with it.

4) Loss of fluid into the abdominal cavity reduces its volume in the blood. A hormonal response develops to this situation, as a result of which blood pressure rises and the amount of urine excreted decreases. Water, lingering in the body, is poorly retained in the vessels, leaving the peritoneal cavity. Ascites grows even more.

In diseases of the peritoneum of a tumor or inflammatory nature, ascites develops due to the fact that the membrane affected in this way begins to produce more fluid that it cannot absorb. At the same time, lymph flow is also blocked.

In congestive heart failure, ascites develops due to sweating of fluid from the veins of the liver and peritoneum, in which, with this pathology, increased hydrostatic pressure develops.

Symptoms of abdominal ascites: photo

A small volume of free fluid does not yet lead to symptoms: they begin to appear only after 1 liter of transudate present in the abdominal cavity.

Ascites is manifested by such symptoms:

• distension in the abdomen;
• stomach ache;
• weight gain, while the person notices that it is increasing in volume - the stomach;
• difficulty in tilting the body;
• heartburn;
• belching;
• shortness of breath when walking;
• , sometimes - swelling of the scrotum.

The navel gradually begins to protrude outward, white stretch marks appear on the skin. If ascites is caused by increased pressure in the portal vein of the liver, then dilated saphenous veins become visible on the anterior and lateral surfaces of the abdomen. If portal hypertension is caused by blockage of the subhepatic vessels, jaundice, nausea, and vomiting will be noticeable.

With tuberculous ascites, the above symptoms are added (weakness, fatigue, headache, increased heart rate). In addition, the patient's weight loss is noted.

With protein deficiency, ascites is not very pronounced, but there are also edema on the extremities, and effusion into the pleural cavity, which is accompanied by shortness of breath. With violations of the outflow through the lymphatic vessels, the stomach will increase in size quite quickly.

Diagnosis of ascites of the abdominal cavity

1) Inspection: the dullness of the sound when tapping the abdomen shifts depending on the position of the body; when pushing the lateral surface of the abdomen with the palm of the hand, the second palm, which fixes the second side of the abdomen, feels specific vibrations of the fluid;

2) Ultrasound: ultrasound helps not only to determine the presence of ascites, but also to examine the liver for the presence of cirrhosis, the peritoneum - for tumors, and in the Doppler mapping mode - to assess the blood flow through the portal vein and other vessels (this allows you to determine the cause of ascites). Ultrasound of the heart and chest cavity reveals heart disease, the presence of fluid in the pleural cavities;

3) Radiography of the abdominal and chest cavities allows you to "see" ascites with a volume of more than 0.5 liters. At the same time, tuberculosis can be visualized in the lungs (that is, presumably, ascites will have a tuberculous etiology). The expansion of the boundaries of the heart and the presence of pleurisy suggests that ascites has developed as a result of heart failure;

4) Laparoscopy and laparocentesis: with these invasive studies, an analysis of ascitic fluid is taken for laboratory and microbiological examination; a biopsy of the liver and peritoneum may also be performed to diagnose the cause of the ascites;

5) Hepatoscintigraphy - a radionuclide study that allows you to assess the severity of cirrhotic changes;

6) Computed and magnetic resonance imaging allow you to see fluid effusion in those parts of the abdominal cavity that are difficult to visualize in other studies;

7) Angiography - X-ray examination, when a contrast agent is injected into the vessels. This procedure allows you to determine the cause of ascites of vascular origin;

8) Biochemical indicators are also determined: the level of albumins, globulin fractions, liver tests, the level of urea and creatinine, potassium, sodium;

9) Coagulogram allows you to get an idea about the changes in the blood coagulation system, which will suffer significantly with cirrhosis of the liver;

10) The level of α-fetoprotein in venous blood is a method for diagnosing liver cancer, which could cause ascites.

Treatment of ascites

Diet. Restriction (about 1.5 g / day) or complete exclusion of sodium from food. This reduces salt intake. With cirrhosis, fluid intake is also limited (up to 1 l / day) - only on condition that the level of sodium in the blood is reduced.

Dynamic monitoring daily weight of a person: about 500 grams should be lost per day. At the same time, the liquid drunk should be slightly more than that allocated under the condition of normal body temperature and ambient air.

Medical therapy depends on the cause of the ascites. So, for all its types, diuretics with potassium preparations are prescribed. Typically, this combination includes the drug Veroshpiron, which is taken with Lasix or Torasemide. As a potassium donor, Asparkam, Panangin, potassium orotate are used.

With cirrhosis of the liver hepatoprotectors of different directions of action are prescribed.

With a low level of protein, transfusion of protein preparations is used: albumin 5-10% or fresh frozen plasma. The latter drug is used when there are violations of the blood coagulation system.

Surgery is used if the patient's body has not responded to diuretic drugs. Can be applied:

1. 1) Laparocentesis - removal of ascitic fluid through a puncture of the abdominal wall. Usually, a drainage tube with a clamp is placed in this hole so that the patient can remove excess fluid for several days.
2. 2) Transjugular intrahepatic shunting - the creation of an artificial communication between the hepatic and portal veins. The operation is performed under X-ray control.
3. 3) Liver transplantation.

Ascites treatment prognosis

• age over 60;
• low blood pressure;
• decrease in the level of albumin in the blood below 30 g / l;
• if ascites arose as a complication of liver cancer;
• with a decrease in glomerular filtration (according to Reberg's test);
• whether spontaneous bacterial peritonitis or diuretic-refractory ascites developed.

Complications of ascites

1. 1) Spontaneous bacterial suppuration of ascitic fluid (peritonitis).
2. 2) Refractory ascites - a condition in which there is no proper weight loss due to enhanced diuretic therapy. It develops as a result of bacterial peritonitis, severe liver cirrhosis, liver cancer, congenital kidney disease.
3. 3) Hepatic encephalopathy - a condition in which consciousness is disturbed, and disorders of cognitive functions develop.
4. 4) Hepatorenal syndrome is a life-threatening violation of renal function.
5. 5) Spontaneous release of ascitic fluid through the umbilical hernia.

Which doctor should I contact for treatment?

A pathological condition that develops in various diseases. The accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity can reach 20-25 liters.

Ascites is not an independent disease, but occurs as a complication of other pathologies. Symptoms of fluid in the abdominal cavity largely depend on the causative condition. Ascites usually occurs in the later stages of the disease.

Causes of fluid in the abdominal cavity

· heart failure;

· liver failure;

hypoproteinuria;

tuberculosis of the peritoneum;

diseases of the pancreas;

other reasons.

Symptoms of fluid in the abdomen

The main symptoms of ascites are:

an increase in the size of the abdomen;

expansion of the umbilical ring up to its protrusion;

The presence of convoluted venous vessels on the abdomen (in the case when ascites develops as a result of portal hypertension);

Difficulty breathing and shortness of breath.

Diagnosis of fluid in the abdominal cavity

Diagnosis of fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity includes:

collection of anamnesis and analysis of patient complaints;

examination of the patient;

x-ray examination of the abdominal cavity;

laparocentesis (taking fluid from the abdominal cavity using a trocar for research);

Other research methods (at the discretion of the doctor).

Types of disease

Depending on the amount of accumulated fluid, ascites happens:

with a small amount of liquid;

With a moderate amount of liquid;

with a significant accumulation of fluid (massive ascites).

Depending on the presence / absence of microorganisms in the fluid, ascites can be:

sterile - the absence of microorganisms in the accumulated liquid;

Infected - the presence of pathogenic microflora in the accumulated fluid.

Patient's actions

Manifestations of ascites begin with the accumulation of at least 1 liter of fluid in the abdominal cavity. When the first symptoms appear, it is necessary to consult a general practitioner, who can later refer the patient to other specialists for an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment of fluid in the abdominal cavity

The elimination of fluid in the abdominal cavity is carried out by treating the underlying disease. Thus, it is possible to reduce the likelihood of recurrence of ascites.

The patient is prescribed a diet with limited salt intake and protein-rich foods.

To remove excess fluid, diuretics and herbs are prescribed. For these purposes, the laparocentesis procedure can also be used. The patient's abdominal wall is pierced with a special instrument (trocar), with the help of which fluid is brought out. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Laparocentesis should be used in combination with medical therapy, since there is a high likelihood of recurrence of ascites.

In some diseases leading to the development of ascites, the patient may be shown a surgical operation.

Complications of fluid in the abdominal cavity

With ascites, the following complications may occur:

Accession of infection with the development of ascites-peritonitis;

development of respiratory failure;

Violation of the activity of the abdominal organs;

The occurrence of various complications during laparocentesis.

Prevention of fluid in the abdominal cavity

Prevention of ascites is reduced to the timely and adequate treatment of underlying diseases, diet, as well as the exclusion of excessive physical and psycho-emotional stress.